Students crowded into the gym on Thursday afternoon for the annual Back-to-School Bash–a school tradition that has quickly become a fall staple.
Held on Thursday, Sept. 18th, at 2:40pm, the event brought together all grade levels for an afternoon of activities, snacks, and exciting giveaways. The Bash was made possible by the efforts of the Baruch staff, as well as the event committee, or “The Beckies,” who coordinated the stations and attractions for new and returning students alike.
The afternoon unfolded in different corners of the gym. Students were offered many different options for how to spend their afternoon. Students lined up for the photo booth, posing with oversized props and others gathered at the craft station or filled seats for giant Bingo. Games like Connect Four, corn hole, basketball, dart-throwing, and a small-scale soccer game kept crowds moving from one spot to the next.
The spotlight of the Bash was the raffle. During their advisory period, every student received a ticket, which could potentially be their opportunity to win school merchandise. Although the T-shirts and sweatshirts went home with a handful of students, the suspense and excitement were what kept the entire crowd engaged.
Students drifted between games and activities, pausing at the photo booth to strike a pose and intently designing bracelets at the craft table. For some, the Bash offered a momentary pause from classes; for others, it became an opportunity to meet new faces and forge connections in the first weeks of school.
The steady laughter, playful competition, and line stretching across the gym made it clear that the event was a success marking it as a shared moment of fun and community for everyone.
Teachers said the bash serves an important role beyond entertainment, science teacher, David Sanchez said, “I think it’s a great opportunity for everyone to come together, especially the freshmen, just because I know not everyone is in the same section, and they may not interact with each other regularly.”
This year’s Bash also differed from past events. Previously, students had to purchase tickets to attend, but for the first time, admission was free.
The result was a fuller gym, with more students sticking around after the last bell. “So, what’s different is now we do it right after school,” said Tedi Schaffer, teacher and event organizer. “I think that makes for a lot more attendance.”
The Back-to-School Bash began three years ago as a ticketed event. Its growth into a free, all-school gathering reflects its shift into a tradition that marks the start of the year. For seniors, it was one of their last opportunities to lead; for freshmen, it was an early chance to be part of something bigger.
As the last bags of popcorn disappeared and raffle tickets gave way to empty tables, what remained was the sense of a school year starting on a high note—with hundreds of students in one place, not for classes, but for community.
